WHY EAT TOGETHER AS A FAMILY

Getting the whole family for meals this days almost seem impossible!
But wait a minute, you really want be doing it as often as you can, because research is beginning to show that eating as a family has great benefits for your children and teenagers. Here are a few reasons to do so

Reason #1: Communication and Well-Being

Conversations during the meal provide opportunities for the family to bond, plan, connect, and learn from one another. It can be a unifying experience for all.

Reason #2: Model Manners (and more)

Family mealtime is the perfect opportunity to display appropriate table manners, meal etiquette, and social skills. Keep the mood light, relaxed, and loving.

Reason # 3: Expand Their World…One Food at a Time

Encourage your children to try new foods, without forcing, coercing, or bribing. Introduce a new food along with some of the stand-by favorites.

Reason #4: Nourish

Meals prepared and eaten at home are usually more nutritious and healthy. They contain more fruits, vegetables, and dairy products along with additional nutrients such as fiber, calcium, vitamins A and C, and folate. Home cooked meals are usually not fried or highly salted, plus soda and sweetened beverage consumption is usually lower at the dinner table.
Make this a part of your healthy lifestyle resolution as you head into 2015